Thursday, January 3, 2013

Onnellista Uutta Vuotta!!!

New to Triogenius: Phrase of the Day...From time to time, we'll look at how to say things in another language. There might be a little extra information as well---if you're not careful, you might learn something.

Phrase of the Day: Happy New Year!

Happy New Year in JapaneseAkemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu! (ah-keh-mah-shteh oh-meh-deh-toe go-zah-ee-mahss) This literally translates to 'congratulations on the dawn of a New Year!', and you'll hear it during Chinese New Year celebrations.

Happy New Year in ItalianFelice Nuovo Anno! (Fell-ee-che noo-ovo ahn-o) This also translates to 'congratulations for the New Year!', and accompanies a grand toast and feast.

Happy New Year in FinnishOnnellista Uutta Vuotta! (On-el-eesta oota vu-oh-ta) Finland rings in the New Year with a grand feast and special baked treats at midnight. Be ready to share some freshly cut New Year's bread along with your greeting.

Happy New Year in SwahiliNakutakaia Heri Ya Mwaka Mpya! You'll be showering New Year greetings on everyone you meet with this simple greeting.

Happy New Year in GermanProsit Neujahr (proezit noy yahr) You'll want to grab your favorite German brew to toast to the New Year, and attend a special feast. This translation is roughly 'Cheers to the New Year!' with plenty of clanking mugs of beer in the background.

Happy New Year in ChineseChu Shen Tan (choo shen taan) A simple way to celebrate the Western New Year and Chinese New Year, this greeting is also easy to scribble on a card or letter.

Happy New Year in HawaiianHauoli Makahiki Hou (how-OH-lee mah-kah-hee-kee ho) If you've been singing Mele Kalikimaka all season long, this greeting can round out your Hawaiian-inspired trend.

Happy New Year in NorwegianGodt Nyttar (got newt or) Norway usually rings in the New Year with fog and cold temperatures, and getting up super-early for a New Year's day walk is a popular activity.

Happy New Year in SpanishFeliz Ano Nuevo (fell-EEs anyoh noo-evo) This literally translates to congratulations on the New Year, and eating 12 grapes at midnight are common practice. A customary toast and feast also accompany the celebration.

Happy New Year in TurkishYiliniz Kutlu Olsun (pronounced as its spelled) A common New Year's tradition in Turkey is to change into a fresh pair of new underwear at the stroke of midnight. Only then can you meet and greet everyone with your New Year greeting and ensure good luck for the oncoming year.